Year : 2024

Volume : Volume 15

Issue : Issue 5

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Chinki Bansal
dr.c.bansal26@gmail.com

Abstract

Background: Serial extraction and late premolar extraction are two orthodontic approaches used to manage severe crowding. This study aims to compare the soft-tissue profile changes associated with these two extraction protocols to determine their respective impacts on facial esthetics. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 60 patients divided into two groups: The serial extraction group (n = 30) and the late premolar extraction group (n = 30). Pre-treatment and post-treatment lateral cephalometric radiographs were analyzed. Key soft-tissue parameters measured included upper lip thickness, lower lip thickness, nasolabial angle, and mentolabial angle. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests and analysis of variance to assess the significance of changes within and between groups. Results: The serial extraction group showed a significant decrease in upper lip thickness (mean change: −2.5 mm, P < 0.01) and lower lip thickness (mean change: −2.0 mm, P < 0.01). The nasolabial angle increased by an average of 3.5° (P < 0.01), and the mentolabial angle increased by 4.0° (P < 0.01). In the late premolar extraction group, the upper lip thickness decreased by an average of 1.5 mm (P < 0.05) and the lower lip thickness by 1.0 mm (P < 0.05). The nasolabial angle increased by 2.0° (P < 0.05), and the mentolabial angle by 2.5° (P < 0.05). Comparison between groups revealed that the serial extraction group exhibited more pronounced changes in all measured parameters. Conclusion: Both serial extraction and late premolar extraction result in significant changes to the soft-tissue profile, but serial extraction produces more pronounced modifications. Clinicians should consider these differences when planning treatment for patients with severe crowding to achieve optimal esthetic outcomes